2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC/XE

The 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE are large-displacement twin-cylinder motorcycles designed to handle urban terrain as well as off-road adventure and do both in classic British style. Broadening Triumph’s successful Bonneville line, the Scrambler 1200s are a big step up—literally and figuratively—in both performance and size from the more street-oriented 900cc Street Scrambler. The latest models are available in two trim levels: With its longer-travel suspension, the XE is intended for more dirt-minded riders, while the XC is aimed at paved environments, still with a hint of weekend off-road capability.

As a new motorcycle entering the growing scrambler marketplace, the Scrambler 1200 comes equipped with top-shelf components, including triple-disc Brembo brakes, Showa forks and Öhlins shocks, tubeless wire-spoke 21- and 17-inch wheels, LED lighting from front to back, a full suite of electronic rider aids, and a TFT display that is Bluetooth and GoPro-camera enabled. Five ride modes are standard, with a sixth, Off-Road Pro, on the XE model. With more power and more features comes more weight, but the Scrambler 1200 XC and XE bring an element of luxury to an otherwise-utilitarian category.

Likes: A bigger, badder Scrambler; Steve McQueen would approve

Dislikes: More features and power also mean additional mass

Verdict: A beefier scrambler that lives up to its namesake

Keyless ignition, heated grips, cruise control, and USB charging are expected in an adventure motorcycle, but the Scrambler 1200 XC and XE bring those features and many more to a segment that has traditionally forgone such luxuries. Turn-by-turn Google Maps navigation and integrated GoPro controls require an accessory Bluetooth module.

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XE Baja Racer In Baja

2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC And Scrambler 1200 XE First Look

2019 Triumph Street Scrambler And Street Twin Updated

Scrambler Shootout

The Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC and XE enter a growing segment alongside the BMW R nineT Scrambler, Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled, and Indian FTR1200, among others. With their varying levels of on- and off-road performance, the XC and XE may prove to be the most versatile machines of the lot.

2018 BMW R nineT Scrambler

2018 Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled

2019 Indian FTR1200

The 2019 Triumph Scrambler 1200 XC is offered in Jet Black/Matt Black or Khaki Green/Brooklands Green while the Scrambler 1200 XE comes in Fusion White/Brooklands Green or Cobalt Blue/Jet Black. Engines are identical, but the XE has nearly 2 inches more suspension travel and a 32mm-longer swingarm.